Response to PA Rep. Brown’s 'School Violence Prevention Act': We need background checks today

To the Editor:
The 189th District incumbent thinks we should have money for metal detectors and armed security guards *in the future*, but nothing for school districts today?
I’m not saying this shouldn’t be considered, but let’s not put the cart before the horse.
This bill is reactionary and not a response we need today.
Why sidestep a crucial measure that can be implemented today?
Where will that money miraculously come from?
How can you propose a bill of this size without knowing the full cost to implement it? Who will pay for this after we get the full weight of the tax “cut?” Which friend of a friend in Harrisburg will get those armed security contracts?
Our kids and teachers can’t get what they need today because Harrisburg won’t properly fund their education. Kids are mentally affected by what’s happening today, but we can’t afford school psychologists.
How do we stop — God forbid — shooters who take aim at our precious children as they play outside? Do we have money to retrofit the school walls and doors to avoid shots coming through from outside? Where does it end? When?
As a parent, I’m disgusted that my child will likely have to participate in active shooter drills while kids in Scranton are losing physical education classes for lack of money.
Help them today.
Responsible legislators want responsible background checks today.
Respectfully,
Christa Caceres
Candidate, PA State Representative-189 District
Bushkill